Facts
- 165 students
- 15 boarding students, 5 countries represented
- 30 teaching faculty
- 10 to 1 student-teacher ratio
- Average class size: 11 students
15 AP Courses: Art History, Biology, Calculus AB, Calculus BC, English Language, English Literature, European History, French Language, French Literature, Physics, Spanish Language, Spanish Literature, Statistics, United States Government and Politics, United States History
10 Athletic Teams: basketball, crew, fencing, field hockey, golf, lacrosse, soccer, squash, swimming, tennis
Challenging Academic Program
- New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS) - certified college preparatory curriculum that is beyond regents
- Talented and caring faculty
- Personal college counseling process
- Innovative interdisciplinary initiatives: Scientist for Life Program
- One-to-one laptop program
- An instructional philosophy and teaching environment that are consistently challenging yet always supportive
Endless Student Development Opportunities
- Participation in a wide array of cultural, service, athletic, and academic clubs and activities
- "Where girls become independent and confident young women"
Unique Environment that Inspires a Sense of Community
- Warmth of physical space; "feels like a second home"
- Recently renovated, historic building
- Nonsectarian, all girls
- Honor Code emphasizing honesty and personal accountability
- Diverse student body - geographically, socio-economically, ethnically, religiously - that values and respects the individual
- Lifelong friendships
- Safe environment
FAQ's
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Buffalo Seminary.
Why is it called the "Seminary" if it's non-religious?
The name "Seminary" refers to a place of higher educational learning. It also refers to a place where something is nurtured and developed.
Does Sem participate in regents? What is the difference between regents and non-regents?
Sem does not participate in regents because we are an independent school not regulated by state guidelines. Our faculty are free to create their own curriculum. In fact, our program is much more intense than a regents-based one. Colleges and universities are very familiar with what a non-regents curriculum entails.
Is a Sem education worth the tuition? How will we afford it?
Absolutely! Sem graduates are well prepared for college and for life. The confidence, independence, and individualism that Sem instills in its students are worth the investment. Scholarships and financial aid are offered to qualified candidates.
What are the advantages of a small, all-girls' school?
Sem graduates have a high confidence level that is a product of a small, all-girls' environment. Girls are taught that they should speak up and be heard without hesitation. In addition, individual attention is given to each student, and there are no distractions from boys.
Why is Sem unique among all-girls' schools in the area?
Sem is the smallest all-girl school in Western New York, with a student to teacher ratio of 10:1. Therefore, the individual attention is the greatest. Sem is also the only non-religious, all-girls' school in the area, enhancing its diversity. The cozy atmosphere in our newly renovated building is one that is not replicated elsewhere.
What is the dress code like at Sem?
Sem respects the diversity of its students and encourages individual expression. However, students must remember that they represent the school. Girls may wear skirts, dresses, or pants of a reasonable length. No jeans are allowed.
